President Marcos on Tuesday reassured the world community of the Philippines’ steadfast dedication to combating corruption through international collaboration and domestic reforms.
During the 5th State Conference on the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) Implementation and Review in Malacañang, Mr. Marcos emphasized that the country will continue to be a proactive member of the global community for this cause.
“With the provisions of the UNCAC, we continue to collaborate on the international front, emphasizing the importance of global partnerships in combating corruption,” the President said, reaffirming the country’s commitment to its treaty obligations under the UNCAC, ratified in 2006.
The treaty obliges member states to develop and implement anti-corruption policies promoting integrity, accountability, and public participation.
He highlighted a two-pronged strategy for fighting corruption: digitalization and public participation.
The chief executive cited the New Government Procurement Act, which streamlines government transactions through electronic bidding and payment systems, reducing opportunities for corruption.
“By streamlining and digitalizing processes, we are improving efficiency and fostering trust and accountability between government and the public,” he said.
Public engagement initiatives, such as the electronic Freedom of Information platform and the publication of the national budget online, further empower citizens to hold the government accountable.
“We must shift away from merely enforcing compliance with laws to steering our people towards the practice of integrity in their daily lives,” Mr. Marcos said.
During the conference, the government presented a new roadmap for the Integrity Management Program (IMP), a national corruption prevention initiative.
The President also received a manifesto of support from various government branches and constitutional commissions.
“This transformation guides not only our systems of governance but our behaviors as citizens of this Bagong Pilipinas,” he pointed out.
The conference provided updates on anti-corruption measures across the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, showcasing the Philippines’ efforts to align with global standards while addressing local corruption challenges.
